Fiji Airways is hoping that the continued increase in Kiwi demand for the island nation could see the return of its A350 aircraft back on the Auckland route, as the carrier confirms schedule changes.
Speaking to Travel Today at Tourism Fiji’s Matai Conference this past weekend, FJ’s regional general manager New Zealand Sheryn Ambler says the carrier is off to a strong start this year from the New Zealand market—with sales well ahead of the same time last year.
And for this improved result she is thanking Kiwi travel agents, who she says have been ‘very good for us’.
. . . New Schedule
Looking ahead Ambler says there’s been some softening of demand from New Zealand. However, a schedule change from 16 Aug will see FJ’s Christchurch flights depart Mon, Thu, Sat and Sun and Wellington flights to depart Mon, Thu and Sat. “It’s hopefully going to be a big game changer for us,” says Ambler, who adds that it will enable clients to fly from CHC to US destinations such as Dallas, Los Angeles and San Francisco in one day.
. . . The A350
In the short-term Ambler’s goal is getting the newer A350 back on the AKL-NAN route, which is currently being serviced by A330 and 737 MAX. “I’m still negotiating,” she says.
. . . Agent Fares
Ambler also used the Matai Conference as a chance to remind agents and brokers of FJ’s agent fares which are available across its network. Agent levels, in form space, to NAN are less than $600 return, and to US destinations such as LAX less than $1000 return, including taxes.
